Regarding micro, sub, and compact, one trend that I notice is that after a smaller gun is introduced, it often gets "biggie sized" back up to a compact or duty size. Throw in modularity, and you have people buying multiple (more) versions of one weapon. Or trading in and upsizing. It's kind of a new way to introduce compact guns
For the past 2 years I've been chasing after the micro carry craze. And here I am switching back to my 3.6 compact. It's easier to be accurate with and carries more rounds for a difference of 5 to 6 oz. I'm keeping the micro compact for times when I'm in shorts and a t-shirt.
@@kentoncarter1103 I'm a male who doesn't wear satin dresses- I don't have printing issues. Your second point makes no sense. What does a law have to do with accuracy?
I am still convinced that the Goldilocks pistol is a 3.25" to 4.25" barrel with a mag capacity of 13 to 15. My favorite pistol of all time (which you unfortunately left out of your "pile" 😀), is the Beretta PX4 Storm Compact. I will likely stay with this pistol as my EDC, even in summer. I am considering some form of micro 9 for pocket carry, but I seldom have the need for that (weddings and funerals, mostly).
It actually pisses me off at how many companies make the compact version of their full-size pistols 3.75 to 3.9 inches in the barrel. Why not 4 inches and give us that extra bit of velocity? 9 mil was made for a 4 inch or more barrel. Why are these companies so stupid?
I agree on the goldilocks zone for barrel lengths. I've tried shorter 2-3 inch barrel revolvers that were awkward to draw from the barrel being so short, while this longer Beretta I tried at a range was a definite EDC no go. Almost a 5 inch barrel on a skinny guy like me would look like I was concealing a Desert Eagle, lmao.
@@dillonc7955 Draw stroke matters less for revolvers tbh. Little snubbies are intuitive enough that they’re almost like a melee weapon. Grip it and rip it, trigger finger placement doesn’t matter!
I was thinking the same thing over the past few months I own several guns in that "Compact" size. Just the other day my wife asked as we were leaving the house " why don't you take one of your little guns?" I was going to carry my Canik tpr9 DA. This is a usual carry size for me. I am a large framed guy at 6'6" and 260. In thinking back I have been carrying my micro's more lately. While examining this i realized I have been leaning more towards micro's because that is what I have been seeing the most of around me and on Social media lately. I am an older shooter so I go further back to guns I grew up with. Getting back to giving true Compacts their rightful place.
Your sooo right! I have recently been trying to get enough rounds in my dagger to feel comfortable to carry it and put the hellcat in the safe. Found a amazing deal on the BRG and bought it too. They are just more enjoyable to shoot.
I guess I'm on the opposite side of this coin. I don't own a micro compact. I've carried a 1911 commander for years and recently changed to a CZ P01 . I find the micros to be to small for my hands and being a bigger guy I don't have a problem concealing a compact. Great video 👍👍
It's not my only or primary carry but I got an XDE when they came out because I wanted a slim, compact, DA/SA, (also having a decocker/ safety) hammer gun and it was nearly the only one in town. The high capacity, micro 9s like the P365 and Hellcat hadn't come out yet. I still have it because I'm so used to it and have so many holsters for it.
Excellent content. I believe that there are a significant number of firearm manufacturers that produce compact pistols, which are largely very well designed pistols. With that said they have not retrofitted those pistols with optics ready slides. If they did, they tend to be significantly higher in price. Just to mention a few compact guns that I have dismissed because they are being produced without an optics ready slide. CZ hammer fired pistols (P01, P07, PCR, 75B). Add HK to list of hammered fired pistols w/o an optics slide. Also the STEYR pistol C9-A2 MF; again no optics cut. And the list goes on and on. On the micro compact side they are now coming out with optics ready pistols.
I carried a G23 for much of my LE career. In retirement I have owned and carried several of the micro 9s. However, as I have made my weekly range sessions more challenging regarding making one or more accurate shots quickly from various distances when drawing from concealment, I saw what in my hands was the performance limitations of the smaller micro 9s vs a larger pistol. My preference evolved to slimline 4” pistols such as the G48 and 4” Performance Center S&W Shields/Shield Plus in 9mm, 40 and 45. I still like the 4” slimline pistols quite well but lately have leaned toward shooting and carrying traditional subcompacts such as the G26, CZ P10s and HK VP9sk. If performance during practice and training continues to drive my choice of which handgun to carry, I can easily see carrying a traditional compact again. For now, either a slimline 4” pistol or a traditional subcompact seems to be the sweet spot balancing handgun performance with comfort while carrying.
I've been in the same shoes, though I'll never, ever carry a 9mm. Several friends of mine have 9mm scars put there by people that we've put into the morgue with 40s and 45s. There's alot to be said for crushing bone and breastplate. Also, two-legged critters are not always the primary concern here. If you're willing to give up a little capacity and learn a new manual of arms a commander size 1911 might be a good choice for you. I just retired and now I enjoy the benefits of 10mm in a commander size 1911. Now that I'm not out there looking for trouble, 10rds of 10 and another 9rds at ready, along with good cardio should get me out of any stupidity I might stumble into.
I have carried 4" guns daily for decades in both DA/SA and strikers. My favorites have been P229, P-07 and G19 but I also have many more and just added a P30 and ordered a 2nd P229 that should arrive today. My P365 is a pocket carry for shorts and t-shirt days in summer in TX or as a back-up to my primary. I like compacts best, always have, always will.
I recently switched to a P-01 with XS Big Dot DXT2 sights and I am really loving it. I thought long and hard about the P-07 before settling on the P-01. It took about 20,000 dry fire trigger pulls of the double action to really smooth it out. (protected by an o ring hammer block and a snap cap) I love my striker fired guns, but I am more comfortable reholstering appendix with the DA/SA hammer gun, and to be honest, I love the aesthetics of a hammer gun with G10 grip scales. I think the true black Polycoat finish on the CZs is beautiful also.
Of course the compacts will stay . New age of firearms is the new trend , micro compact with the same magazine capacity as the compacts . I’m eager to see Kahr’ new double stack as announced by Dan the firearm guy . Watching all the review videos on micro’s I’m interested in the Canik mete mc9 and the IWI Masada slim . I still have the original double stack subcompact , the Keltec P11 that i bought in 1997 its a dinosaur now but i still shoot it.
Well, compact 4 inch barrel, and full size grip. Remains my favorite way to carry. It offers the perfect balance of concealment, capacity, and shoot-ability in one package.
Also has to do with climate. Down in the south it’s hot and humid weather for 9-10 months out of the year. I live in the south and I have a compact gun and I like it but it’s harder to conceal. But with a micro I can stuff it in my shorts or on my side and still wear a thin t shirt and it conceals well. I think the middle ground of size between a compact and micro is the best of both worlds, something approaching 4” barrel but slimmer than a compact, the market is moving in that direction. And the southern states are more friendly to gun carrying rights as a whole.
Sig really got the latest micro 9mm pistol trend going with the P365. That means they were watching the marketplace closely around 2015-2016 to see what was driving civilian sales. Concealed carry. P365 was their response. And it took off kinda like lighter fluid on a charcoal grill.
@@edstringer1138 That's true, but sig does deserve credit for their magazine engineering. Cramming 17 rounds into the 365x Macro is impressive. Of course I'd still never buy a Sig for the reasons you mentioned lol
@@edstringer1138 The p365 was never actually recalled. They offered warranty repair for the guns that had striker, trigger return spring or dead night sight issues. Upgraded the siglit ns to X-Ray sights then made those std. Yes there were rolling changes to correct the issues with several runs early on. The guns were released Dec 2017 and all problems resolved by late May/early June 2018. That's not an uncommon thing in the gun world. Remember early Gen 4 Glocks with dual spring issues for 6 months? It's happened to most every manufacturer. Sig got slammed over it and some folks never give credit for the resolution and innovation that made the micro market a thing, and changing the jndustry for the better by creating such game changing innovations.
While I still shoot and feel more confident with a (typical 4", 15 round) compact like my CZ P10C, I understand why a slimmer larger micro nine (like my Hellcat Pro) are so popular. Not a large difference in performance while being more comfortable/concealable with similar capacity. In my case it becomes a winter vs. summer carry proposition. Of course I also carry a S&W 442 .38 as my pocket BUG.
I have lots of pistols, but my EDC is a CZ 75 Compact PCR. It can do just about any task and goes bang every time. It is a tack driver and after 3000 plus rounds it is going strong. CZs FTW!
I have a slender build (6 ft. - 150 lbs.) I bought my first handgun last May (SAR9 Compact) partly based on GB Guns review and was expecting to be able to use it for both home defense and concealed carry. However, when I went to have an IWB holster made for it, I was told that with my body size, I would hate carrying this gun because of its weight and bulk. Having never carried before, I had no frame of reference to compare against but appreciated his input. I ultimately purchased a micro compact (Taurus GX4) which fits my body perfectly at about the 3 o'clock position with no printing, even when only covered by a tee shirt. For me the decision came down to one of comfort and concealability when carrying. I reasoned that if it wasn't comfortable to carry and easily concealable, I likely wouldn't carry it as often. The SAR9C is now my nightstand gun so no regrets.
In training members of a church security team, I found a number of them chose the micros (most often a Sig P365 or Kimber variant) principally because here in North Central Texas, they’re easier to conceal, especially in summer attire which we don 4-5 months out of the year (mid-May to mid-Sept 10:46 ). What I also found was most could not shoot them accurately at all on untimed, 1-shot, standard drills at 5 yards. And none of them were accurate in multiple shot drills at the same distance. They’re simply too small to gain and maintain a good purchase on and control during strings of fire. I agree totally with your observations, compacts & mid-sized pistols are the most practical and effective tools. Me, I carry & train with a full sized PX4 9mm Beretta 9/10ths of the time, and couldn’t be happier. Keep it coming!!
Well said! These days I personally prefer the "Mullet Guns" (19X, G45, etc.). You get the full size frame/firing grip w/a capable/competent barrel/slide configuration. When I handle one of these side by side w/a compact, the mullet typically wins.
I adore my FN 509 Midsize. I agree, it's a do it all type of gun that can serve multiple roles. I do however also own a micro 9 for summer clothes and I completely understand why some might choose to only have a micro 9 now given that the mag capacities of them have gotten so much better. Sadly, many new shooters fail to recognize that larger guns are so much easier to shoot however.
Sub and micro compact polymer (for the most part) pistols are in vogue now, as you are well aware. There has been a pretty substantial amount of innovation in the micros, especially in capacity with the P365 leading everyone else. I go to my local gun store/ range often. I'm a big guy, and a senior. Like you, Graham, I have large hands. The micros are, generally, uncomfortable to hold. To me, it's like a car- If I can get in and out of it without causing pain, or not being able to even get in it- yes, that's happened... I immediately reject it. I bought and sometimes carry a Canik TP9SF Elite SC. I do not like the pinky extension mag- I use a 15 round one, and even though it feels odd, it is o.k. I do have a couple of mags that have sleeves to make the grip feel like a standard compact. For us bigger guys, compacts can be fairly well concealed. To me, my PDP compact, is just right. I shoot it well, and its accurate. I just bought a METE SF. I had to order it, only the SFT and SFX were in stock. I watched your review of the new Canik Micro, and I am going to look carefully at that gun when one is in stock. I don't think we've forgotten about our well loved compacts, they have just been upstaged by the micros.
Because Sig has such overwhelming marketing, it's easy to dismiss how innovative they actually are. The 365 series has proven you can fit 15 or more rounds in a gun much smaller than a compact. Now with the 365x Macro, they've done that AND made the gun as easy to shoot as any compact with the inclusion of the built-in compensator. Why use a compact if you can buy a pistol that's smaller, lighter, and handles just as well? Me personally I'll stick to compact and full-size because Sig's innovation does not translate to good quality firearms. People are already complaining that their Macros are showing signs of wear normally associated with 5+ year old pistols.
Compact is my favorite size. I have so many in all the different sizes but always seem to grab one of my compacts for concealed carry. If I'm carrying a smaller size it's mostly my IWI Masada Slim or CZ P10S
I currently carry a PX4 storm compact, my opinion is the compact is perfect for me…. You can conceal it, the 3.5 to 4.0ish barrel length in a typical compact is easier to shoot and stay on target with less recoil than the smaller barrel lengths, sub compacts and micro’s. I couldn’t agree more that the media broadcasts the latest and greatest trends/fads which is ok. The micro’s are in the lime light so to speak right now. There are a lot of companies making really good soft shooting micros. I’m old school and grew up shooting larger pistols so for me the 4” compact was my “WOW” pistol. Thank you for all the great content, your time and channel are greatly appreciated!
For all the reasons you mentioned, I have no use for any of the true micro's. The market is adjusting by increasing their sizes with X, XL, and + models as people realize tiny guns are not the holy grail for most shooters. A full 3 finger grip (even if that is accomplished with pinky/mag extension) greatly enhances the shootability of almost all pistols. A barrel length of 3.2" can be adequate, but, 3.5"+ adds ballance and aides in recoil control. At 6' and 200 lb.s, commander size 1911s and 4" handguns, like the Beretta PX4 full size, are perfect options for me and many others.
I love my old 229, if guns get any smaller you're gonna shoot off fingers trying to use them. I like the Shield for easy cary but nowhere near as comfortable to shoot as my 229, 92, and M&P. Great video👍
People think strikers are easier to shoot, and they are cheaper for companies to make. And people have gotten completely comfortable carry a single action striker gun safety wise
You beat me to it, but that pretty much sums up what I was going to say. It's cheaper to make strikers (more profit for the company when sold at the same price), people are intimidated by DA/SA, second-strike is not as necessary with modern ammo, etc etc. I think a part of it to is the RUclips age. It's easier to look cool or fake that you know what you're doing with a striker. With the rise of GunTubers strikers were shown more.
With the introduction of micro's it changed the game. Compacts or full width handguns are now considered fullsize / duty firearms, and the old fullsize such as G17/G34 are now rarely used because the introduction of the X hybrid line of 4" slide with less reciprocating mass and fullsize frames. With most people running optics now a days sight radius is not much of a concern anymore. Most will never admit it but the Taurus G3C is the perfect goldilocks zone for shootability, ergonomics, reliability, weight and concealment. It falls between subcompact and micro which not many have attempted yet other then maybe the MC9, which is a new release. Looking forward to getting my hands on one of those MC2SC & MC2C's.
As a person who has been an armed professional for a good portion of my life as well as a gun enthusiast and collector I have my own classification for handguns. I consider Glock 17 and larger guns to be Service sidearms, mostly if carried on body to be carried in a holster on a duty type belt. Midsize or Glock 19 sized guns I see as Agent or investigator type weapons when if carried on body are holstered and concealed with a jacket or openly carried with a badge close by. Subcompact guns like a Glock 26?27 size or a frame revolver size are Undercover type guns carried concealed to keep from their presence ever being known. The new Micro compacts like the Shield, Shiel plus, 365, Hellcat, MC9 etc. are a great addition to the undercover class of guns. Now with off-body carry such as with a sling bag or briefcase you can carry any of the size guns but as a civilian or undercover operative with on-body carry the micros are the way to go. It is just too difficult especially in a warm climate to conceal the compacts and up.
I've always wondered this, too. Compact pistols are the best do it all pistol size for most people. I think its because people are on the micro 9s micro compact kick for some reason.
Personally, I find the compact 4" barrel to the 4.5" mid-size as the ideal barrel length to deliver optimal performance. When possible, I prefer to carry a full-size 5" long barrel. I only own *one* subcompact with a 3.6 barrel length, which I carry in rare occasions. I am not into micro guns. I don't like them. The only micro that has gotten my attention is the Canik METE MC9 and the Sig Sauer P365 TACOPS. Unfortunately, nowadays, men are into seeking "maximum comfort" by carrying the smallest, cutest 3" barrel micro gun. But not me; like I said, I am into *maximizing performance and effectiveness.* Thank you, GB! 😎
Let's be honest...a lot of it is sales and marketing. The dimensional differences between micro, sub, and compact are not really that significant...aside from barrel length and capacity. I'd rather carry a slightly larger pistol, but that may not be the best option for others.
I have a Beretta PX4 Storm Compact Carry LTT. I no longer daily carry it except during cold months in my Rothco winter jacket. SIzewise, it's compact but the barrel is only 3 1/4". I usually have it as my office gun. It's been replaced for EDC by my Mossberg MC2SC, which is smaller, has a slightly longer barrel and almost identical sight radius.
Love the insight and videos Graham. I like mid-size pistols and have a couple but for those of us who live in southern climates, they really don’t work well for CC, yes it can be done and compromise is key, but for real life it’s rather difficult. Micros are definitely where it’s at majority of the time for cc.
I still have a G19 but I rarely carry it anymore. I carry my G26 the vast majority of the time. I have the factory 12 round extended mag and appendix carry that or flush mag for pocket carry. I just find it more comfortable to carry and for some reason I have always shot it better than my G19. I still love my G19 at the range though. Not because I shoot it great but at the range it’s fun to shoot a bigger gun. Anyway, that’s my reasoning but I agree that it’s a good size for carry, and it’s certainly better for a nightstand gun because of the rail that the G26 doesn’t have. I know you can get a light for it but you can’t put any light on it like the G19.
Honestly while most of the people who are big I to training find no issues carrying a compact gun, many of the people buying the micro compacts do so because they do not have to change their life and wardrobe around carrying thr gun. Compacts were primarily designed for police and military officer who would wear it on a belt outside their clothing. In the US where most people are only able or only willing to conceal carry, the gun must be even smaller to be comfortable a d hidden. Most other normal folks who don't want to shoot often but want to defend themselves now are asking me about micro compacts. Almost everyone one of them have complained that the compacts suggested by the gun store employees are too big for them to carry.
I still carry a compact sized pistol (M&P m2.0 compact) because I want the grip that I can get all my fingers on. What I would like is less width. That's what concerns me the most with printing through clothing. I carry at 3 o'clock and with a slight forward cant on my holster I do not have trouble with the butt of the grip printing.
The compact 9 will always be my ideal carry piece, I think the advantages will always outweigh the downsides. If I have to defend myself or my family I want my P-10c
Funny you mention the Arex; It's almost identical in every dimension to the Glock 48. The biggest reason you don't hear about them is the recent "Gun Fad" of micro and subcompact guns that are flooding the market. Kind of like how 40 S&W fell out of favor. Just like the 40, the compact size is probably more ideal than the latest "Fad" but things just have to come back full circle. Thanks for the video...
Good point! For a first handgun, you need to spend lots of time on a shooting range. Both with a good Instructor showing everything you need to know. Then under supervised practice. And then, finally SOLO, improving your level of competence and comfort with your chosen piece of hardware. A "too tiny to shoot comfortably" gun is just going to defeat that purpose before you can even get started! I NEVER recommended the tiny pocket "Wonders" for a first time user! NEVER! And it seems to take, even a well trained and very experienced shooter 300 to 500 rounds (say three to five range secessions!) just to get used to and feel comfortable with, any new gun. Especially one that's going to be a "daily carry tool" for the defense of your very life. As an employee for years of a store that sold all kinds of weapons, it grieved me to no end, when a potential customer starts asking me; "What kind of gun should I buy?" This is an immediate red flag. Because my first question is always: "Well what kind of guns do you have experience with?' When they tell me "None", I always advised them to first get some training and experience! With either a Professional firearms Instructor or, perhaps a friend or relative with enough experience to be a a safe and competent teacher.
I have a Beretta APX Carry 9mm that I consider a sub-compact that I used to carry, and after a few mags it was certainly NOT a fun shooter at the range. I ended up getting an HK VP9SK (I consider a compact size) that was definitely bigger to carry but I felt much more confident and accurate shooting than I did the APX Carry. But come warmer weather I did not want to carry a heavy-ish pistol so when Sig came out with the P365-380 I jumped on it. Now my warm weather carry is the P365-380 with Underwood Xtreme Defender fluted ammo (and the HK during colder weather). So for "me" the 380 ammo is much easier to control with a sub-compact gun and I personally have no worries about penetration or wound cavity with the monolithic solid ammo. All that said, I think the "compact" size is still the Godilocks of pistol size for 9mm ammo. Great info and sight as always GBGuns!! Love your channel :)
I own several compacts. They are my favorite size. My usual EDC is the Beretta PX4 Storm compact from LTT. When I'm not carrying that, it's my Sig P239. I do own and like the compact PDP and P320 but I prefer to carry DA//SA hammer fire. I largely ignore micros. I'm more interested in the new compact hammer fire from Lionheart or Grand Power for example
I have the mete sft and sf. The sf is my fav handgun I own. I have the pdp arex m p10c just to name a few. Caniks are great. Hands down my fav handgun brand
I've had my Keltec P11 for 22 years, I finally bought a Glock 19 MOS Gen 5, and I will say, it's actually easier not to print. The longer barrel tucks it in better than the shorter Keltec. The handle always stuck out so much making it easy to print, even tho it is a small gun.
I went from my Ruger Security 9 4" to my Shield Plus. Here's the experience.... While I lost the ability to use my thumb on the grip with the 10 round mag, I found there wasn't a single new outfit I could conceal in where I couldn't with the Ruger. One exception being I can pocket carry the Shield sometimes. However, I will say at first I actually shot the Shield BETTER than my Ruger...but I has also learned new techniques. Now they should about the same. I went back to the Ruger as my primary carry gun for a while because it's shape made it much more comfortable to carry. I will say currently, I find the optimal carry to be the Shield with the 13 round mag, which gives it the same-ish grip length as the Ruger. But I choose the shield as my primary for a few reasons. If I'm going to be gone all day, I'll take both mags and a holster or two and that way I have several ways I can carry it (pocket, iwb, off-body) and if the day starts cold and then warms up as the sun is out, I can change how I am carrying on the fly. There's a little less I can do with the compact, though it's not super far off. My Shield has also been 100% malfunction-free since I got it, but my Ruger has had lots of hiccups, so that really sealed the deal. Plus with the Shield being thinner and lighter, well my pants don't sag as much at least. I cardy a full/duty sized pistol if it's winter conditions outside all day. Much easier to grab from under layers and operate with gloves.
I’m fortunate enough to have several concealed carry firearms at my disposal. With that said, I’m gravitating towards my Glock 19 or Glock 48 as of late. I like the full firing grip and capacity. And let’s face it…the world is getting worse so more ammo capacity the better.
I had Sig P250 with both compact and sub compact modules. I only ever carried it with the compact module because of the fear of velocity loss. I gave it to my son in law. I have often regretted letting it go, but knowing it is protecting my granddaughters erases that regret. I still have a Colt Officers ACP and I don't carry it for the same reason. When I carry a semiautomatic pistol it is usually my Canik TP9DA or S&W SW9VE (a second gen Sigma). I did recently purchase a Tisas Stingray but I haven't had the opportunity to put enough rounds through it to add it to my EDC rotation. All that being said you will most often find me with a S&W 442 in my pocket. The plan being stay out of situations where I might need to shoot someone. That has been my plan for over 70 years and so far it is working. Hopefully the goblins will cooperate and leave me and mine alone. As always I enjoy your videos and your insights. Keep up the good work.
Pretty much all I carry, all my pistols are FS and Compact, the length bore sight is very important for myself, as an old fart, the mirco are a no go, and I do not use optics on any of my pistols . Mentally, which also plays an important part, I feel more comfort with Compact, I had a micro as a carry gun for 6 months, and sold it, just not my thing, after all, being comfort both mentally and physically with your firearm, is more important than anything.
I've been carrying daily since 1988. I've bought nearly every Glock that has been sold on the US market. I've bought lots of others brands too and I enjoy shooting them all. That said, I bought my first Glock 19 in 1996 and have carried it nearly everyday since. Occasionally I'll carry my 26, or the 43, or the 43X, but I always go back to one I shoot the absolute best and that's the 19. Sure it's not the easiest gun to conceal, but I'm. 6'5" 380lbs so I can hide it well. I also spent a couple years on and off carrying my 21, but that was just because at that time I shot it as well if not better than my 19.
There are some loads specifically made for shorter barrels, and some modern loads can still do fine from a sub 4", the only way to k ow for sure would be to test them all and that takes more time and money than I've got.
All dot but barrel length for ballistics I guess but not a primary consideration. I'm buying a pdp soon, I seen your post about the free ameriglo red dot and it tipped the scale for my decision. Thanks
I carry a CZ P10S as my EDC. Some would say the P10S is a Sub Compact, but IMO with a Plus 2 base plate you start venturing into a hybrid between Sub compact and Compact. Just in my personal experience, weight and width is a drawback to the sub compact and compact pistols (weight being the biggest drawback for me). As a hiker in my spare time, I find any pistol that starts to exceed 24 ounces with an unloaded mag, starts to get a bit on the heavier side when hiking or walking long distances. I'm starting to see a bigger trend moving towards the Micro 9 series of pistols that has a full grip like the Springfield Hellcat Pro and seeing more women starting to opt for Glock 43X and 48 type designs, due to being thinner than a compact, much lighter and most of all a bit easier to shoot due to getting a full grip on the pistol. Compacts and Sub compacts are here to stay for a long time especially considering how flexible they are for SD and Range use, not everyone owns multiple pistols and for those like me who owns 1 pistol (allowed to have 2 pistols max on occasional and SD status) due to how gun laws work in the country I live in, compacts and Sub Compacts will majority be the primary choice.
compact pistol with a threaded barrel around 4.5 inch and compensator is my ideal gun . Easy to conceal, good velocity ,and shoots softer than a full size without a comp. Also something about a compact grip with a magwell just locks my hand into the gun and helps keep it flat af
I first noted a similar hand experience with the PDP line of pistols. Even though I have XXL-glove hands, the compact locks me in while the full-size PDP form just doesn't fit right. Maybe it's from years of shooting smaller guns, something about the full-size grip feels off.
Well, down south in states open carry isn’t legal, summers are blisteringly hot or summer is the only time of year (20 years in south Florida) carrying a subcompact makes sense. Carry concealed only in Florida. Hotter than hell, subcompacts make total sense. Go a little more north in the south to the promised land, subcompact in the late spring, 100 degree humid summers and a compact in early spring, fall and winter is what makes sense. It’s the balance. The subcompacts are the newer design and get the press releases more often, but as we see, new compacts keep coming out. It seems like especially new owners look at compacts as antiquated designs and the 10-12rd capacity on 3-3.4” barrels is the new tech. Then again what do I know, I only do written reviews and write ups for a living. In a different industry albeit.
I got 8 +1 and sometime a extra mag in my XdS mod 2 for concealed Plus I modded the trigger. not to snappy and just feels good with a full grip Bediside is a PPQ 17 round , Den P30sk Im good for 9s Im sort of curious on the micro 9s with red dots but it wouldnt be really replacing any of those three Id be more likely to buy a 30 super if ammo prices dropped
The majority of my pistols are compact, despite my P365, Hellcat, and S&W Shield Plus, so they'll never be "outdated" or outright replaced by micro 9's in my collection!
Not long ago single stack 9mm were the hot thing. Then the micro 9 with more capacity with simular size came up. I have seen videos and comments where people wrote that they went back to sub compacts like the G26 because they are better to control. Also the Sig 365 macro is an answer to it that the micros are not comfortable to shoot. So we end up again with almost compact size pistols. And from videos who compared the G19 vs G48 side by side its looks like the regular compact size is still nicer to shoot and better to control.
I love DA/SA guns, have since the 80s when I started carrying P220 then P229 and 3rd Gen S&Ws, later P07. Back to P229 and P07 as all time favs. I even occasionally step up to the P226 and Beretta 92X. With the right holster/belt combo it's not a problem even with a polo or untucked Hawaiian type button up shirt.
I still haven’t given up my PPSM2 for the newer micro pistols. I’ve even gone to carrying my Dagger or P10-c lately as I don’t care about printing here in Portland. Don’t get me wrong, I’d like to try ‘em but they were coming out so quickly, I had to step back. As to why we don’t see more compacts? I think it’s the size and concealment factors, followed very closely by the trending of the 365. I’m really looking forward to more manufacturers releasing FCU’s, too.
It's the most common practice in firearms history that people buy significantly more small guns compared to bug guns. Your common man would prefer to have something convenient to carry and relatively cheap.
Although micro and sub-compacts have made a huge wave through the market recently I still prefer compact sized pistols. They’re in between the conceal carry and duty category.
I stopped carrying Glock 19 size compacts 2 years ago after I bought the P365XL which is similar in size and capacity to compacts but slimmer and easier to carry.
I enjoy the compacts I own and will continue to buy them. I prefer the 3.5”+ inch barrels (that’s what she said 🤣) with the larger grips that accommodate them. I don’t want the latest and greatest until they have been proven reliable. Manufacturers tend to rush their products out before all the testing is complete.
I might be the opposite. I’m in love with the compact size. Maybe it’s because a Glock 19 was one of the first pistols I ever shot. But I love guns like the Canik Mete SF, PSA Dagger compact, MR920 etc.
I'm seeing a lot of new 10mm 4" compact guns hitting the market, which is cool. ...You'd think 10mm prefers a 5" or 6" long barrel, but nope, it's perfectly happy with 4" for some reason.
As a preface to my thoughts. Concealed carry Is a new adventure for us in places like New Jersey and New York in the post Bruen decision world. Prior it was full size 4.5" barreled bedside guns for HD and range trips - mostly. I mean. Why not? Big frames are easy shooters. Now that hell hath froze my choices are broader. First purchase was a Shadow system CR 920 fantastic pistol but difficult to shoot comfortably and well for extended periods of time. Was as big a change from an FN 509t as you can get. I have settled in on a Beretta APX Centurion/Compact (modularity at its best!) and a M&P 2.0 compact. 3.6" barrel is the sweet spot for me. These "forgotten" compacts are all new to me and every size and type is in consideration. 10 round mags also alter the calculus. Capacity is not so much a consideration (tho that may change soon too).
I'm very convinced these "10 round magazine" Laws will eventually be ruled "Unconstitutional"! It is pure lunacy to imagine limiting "Law Abiding Citizens" to only 10 rounds will make any sort of dent in CRIME! Our "Leaders" seem to all be FOOLS. Or Communist? Guess you can take your pick.
@@robinj.9329 would say that those choices are not mutually exclusive. Lol. They are Commie fools ! If it were a matter of enforcement- the mag limit should be an add on charge. “.. in the commission of a felony with a 11+ round magazine…” it would be directed at the criminal. In NJ it’s a possession crime. You don’t even have to possess the firearm the magazine goes in nor the ammo it uses to be charged! Its a law designed to make felons and ruin lives. It not even a secret. They admit the laws are written to make you hesitant to own a firearm and if you loose your rights as a felon- oh well. That to them is a win. But I agree. These laws will eventually go away - it will be dragged out for as long as possible in hopes of changing the court - so we here are forced to play the long game.
Most of my guns are compacts. Though I do have a few 1911s and a 92fs. But there’s a noticeable difference between carrying a 5” gun and a 4” gun. I prefer my single stack S&W 457 the most in 45acp, even though it has smaller capacity than my double stack 9mms.
I will stick with my P320 carry, PDP 4" full size and Glock 19x/45. I prefer the 4 inch barrel with a full size grip more since they are a compact and full size handguns. I was never sold on the micro compact.
Trends in this video's comments seem to be that people are getting a micro compact as their secondary. And that they already have a reliable compact they are content with. My guess would be that as folks find their sub/micro of choice, the sales will shrink. Is there anyone else who has a different idea?
Compacts are not going anywhere! They are still king however, the "micro compacts" are more concealable and the craze right now because they are thin, light, and can carry a decent round capacity of at least 10-13+. Not bad for a smaller piece for CC. I'm still rocking my compacts and sub-compacts (i.e., HK VP9sk/P30sk and G26).
Almost all of my many pistols are compacts. My only subcompact is a Glock 26 (and Glock 29 if that even counts as a sub). I can count on one hand my full size handguns, not counting revolvers. I do love my MK 12 K100, recommended by GB years ago. Amazing design, although the finish tends get very light surface rust and it likes to be rubbed down with an oil cloth. It does not damage the finish and it is stored in a safe with a golden rod dehumidifier. I am 5' 8", 170 lbs and I think compacts are the perfect size, weight, sight radius, barrel length for the 9mm cartridge, and a comfortable grip. They hold the right amount of rounds in the magazines and can double capacity with a spare. Could they be smaller and lighter? Sure, they could. Are they comfortable enough for daily carry with a proper belt and holster? For me, yes. In most situations the compact is the largest and the smallest handgun I would want to carry. Great topic, GB.
I'm there with ya, the majority of my pistols are compacts as it's such a versatile size: small enough for carry, big enough to be enjoyable on the range.
You don’t hear about compact pistol size any longer simply because why would a civilian concealed carry a larger pistol with the same rounds as a larger pistol? Civilian concealed carrying must be conviennent to actual daily carry. Pistol size is the number one factor of convenience. Unless your carrying on duty as LE or security a duty sized frame is no longer needed to have 12-15 plus rounds in a very small pistol now.
Article with links to all reviews of the compacts seen in this video: www.gbgunsdepot.com/post/what-happened-to-compact-pistols
Thorough AND organized. 👍 I'm impressed.
Regarding micro, sub, and compact, one trend that I notice is that after a smaller gun is introduced, it often gets "biggie sized" back up to a compact or duty size. Throw in modularity, and you have people buying multiple (more) versions of one weapon. Or trading in and upsizing. It's kind of a new way to introduce compact guns
Yes, look at P365Macro
Wow they literally found a way to resell us compacts lol. I think everyone wants lightest, un snappy, most capacity in that smallest size..
For the past 2 years I've been chasing after the micro carry craze. And here I am switching back to my 3.6 compact. It's easier to be accurate with and carries more rounds for a difference of 5 to 6 oz. I'm keeping the micro compact for times when I'm in shorts and a t-shirt.
😂😂they print to much and defensive shooting laws lead most people to not have to be very accurate.
@@kentoncarter1103 I'm a male who doesn't wear satin dresses- I don't have printing issues. Your second point makes no sense. What does a law have to do with accuracy?
The more I have shot ( micro 9’s)
The more I like my compacts …
Im drifting back to my compacts…
Now… if you noticed
Micros are growing in size
Yeah the micro macro like the Sig 365 macro. Waht is the difference between a micro macro and a macro micro?😂
I am still convinced that the Goldilocks pistol is a 3.25" to 4.25" barrel with a mag capacity of 13 to 15. My favorite pistol of all time (which you unfortunately left out of your "pile" 😀), is the Beretta PX4 Storm Compact. I will likely stay with this pistol as my EDC, even in summer. I am considering some form of micro 9 for pocket carry, but I seldom have the need for that (weddings and funerals, mostly).
I've got the Langdon PX4CC. Its a wonderful carry pistol.
It actually pisses me off at how many companies make the compact version of their full-size pistols 3.75 to 3.9 inches in the barrel. Why not 4 inches and give us that extra bit of velocity? 9 mil was made for a 4 inch or more barrel. Why are these companies so stupid?
Canik METE MC9
I agree on the goldilocks zone for barrel lengths. I've tried shorter 2-3 inch barrel revolvers that were awkward to draw from the barrel being so short, while this longer Beretta I tried at a range was a definite EDC no go. Almost a 5 inch barrel on a skinny guy like me would look like I was concealing a Desert Eagle, lmao.
@@dillonc7955 Draw stroke matters less for revolvers tbh. Little snubbies are intuitive enough that they’re almost like a melee weapon. Grip it and rip it, trigger finger placement doesn’t matter!
I was thinking the same thing over the past few months
I own several guns in that "Compact" size. Just the other day my wife asked as we were leaving the house " why don't you take one of your little guns?" I was going to carry my Canik tpr9 DA. This is a usual carry size for me. I am a large framed guy at 6'6" and 260. In thinking back I have been carrying my micro's more lately. While examining this i realized I have been leaning more towards micro's because that is what I have been seeing the most of around me and on Social media lately. I am an older shooter so I go further back to guns I grew up with. Getting back to giving true Compacts their rightful place.
WARNING: RUclips says 0:46-0:47 timestamp may not be suitable for some viewers.
I enjoyed that part myself.
Your sooo right! I have recently been trying to get enough rounds in my dagger to feel comfortable to carry it and put the hellcat in the safe. Found a amazing deal on the BRG and bought it too. They are just more enjoyable to shoot.
I guess I'm on the opposite side of this coin. I don't own a micro compact. I've carried a 1911 commander for years and recently changed to a CZ P01 . I find the micros to be to small for my hands and being a bigger guy I don't have a problem concealing a compact. Great video 👍👍
It's not my only or primary carry but I got an XDE when they came out because I wanted a slim, compact, DA/SA, (also having a decocker/ safety) hammer gun and it was nearly the only one in town. The high capacity, micro 9s like the P365 and Hellcat hadn't come out yet. I still have it because I'm so used to it and have so many holsters for it.
Excellent content. I believe that there are a significant number of firearm manufacturers that produce compact pistols, which are largely very well designed pistols. With that said they have not retrofitted those pistols with optics ready slides. If they did, they tend to be significantly higher in price. Just to mention a few compact guns that I have dismissed because they are being produced without an optics ready slide. CZ hammer fired pistols (P01, P07, PCR, 75B). Add HK to list of hammered fired pistols w/o an optics slide. Also the STEYR pistol C9-A2 MF; again no optics cut. And the list goes on and on. On the micro compact side they are now coming out with optics ready pistols.
I carried a G23 for much of my LE career. In retirement I have owned and carried several of the micro 9s. However, as I have made my weekly range sessions more challenging regarding making one or more accurate shots quickly from various distances when drawing from concealment, I saw what in my hands was the performance limitations of the smaller micro 9s vs a larger pistol. My preference evolved to slimline 4” pistols such as the G48 and 4” Performance Center S&W Shields/Shield Plus in 9mm, 40 and 45. I still like the 4” slimline pistols quite well but lately have leaned toward shooting and carrying traditional subcompacts such as the G26, CZ P10s and HK VP9sk. If performance during practice and training continues to drive my choice of which handgun to carry, I can easily see carrying a traditional compact again. For now, either a slimline 4” pistol or a traditional subcompact seems to be the sweet spot balancing handgun performance with comfort while carrying.
I've been in the same shoes, though I'll never, ever carry a 9mm. Several friends of mine have 9mm scars put there by people that we've put into the morgue with 40s and 45s. There's alot to be said for crushing bone and breastplate.
Also, two-legged critters are not always the primary concern here.
If you're willing to give up a little capacity and learn a new manual of arms a commander size 1911 might be a good choice for you.
I just retired and now I enjoy the benefits of 10mm in a commander size 1911. Now that I'm not out there looking for trouble, 10rds of 10 and another 9rds at ready, along with good cardio should get me out of any stupidity I might stumble into.
I have carried 4" guns daily for decades in both DA/SA and strikers. My favorites have been P229, P-07 and G19 but I also have many more and just added a P30 and ordered a 2nd P229 that should arrive today. My P365 is a pocket carry for shorts and t-shirt days in summer in TX or as a back-up to my primary. I like compacts best, always have, always will.
I recently switched to a P-01 with XS Big Dot DXT2 sights and I am really loving it. I thought long and hard about the P-07 before settling on the P-01. It took about 20,000 dry fire trigger pulls of the double action to really smooth it out. (protected by an o ring hammer block and a snap cap) I love my striker fired guns, but I am more comfortable reholstering appendix with the DA/SA hammer gun, and to be honest, I love the aesthetics of a hammer gun with G10 grip scales. I think the true black Polycoat finish on the CZs is beautiful also.
Of course the compacts will stay . New age of firearms is the new trend , micro compact with the same magazine capacity as the compacts . I’m eager to see Kahr’ new double stack as announced by Dan the firearm guy . Watching all the review videos on micro’s I’m interested in the Canik mete mc9 and the IWI Masada slim . I still have the original double stack subcompact , the Keltec P11 that i bought in 1997 its a dinosaur now but i still shoot it.
Well, compact 4 inch barrel, and full size grip. Remains my favorite way to carry. It offers the perfect balance of concealment, capacity, and shoot-ability in one package.
Also has to do with climate. Down in the south it’s hot and humid weather for 9-10 months out of the year. I live in the south and I have a compact gun and I like it but it’s harder to conceal. But with a micro I can stuff it in my shorts or on my side and still wear a thin t shirt and it conceals well. I think the middle ground of size between a compact and micro is the best of both worlds, something approaching 4” barrel but slimmer than a compact, the market is moving in that direction. And the southern states are more friendly to gun carrying rights as a whole.
Sig really got the latest micro 9mm pistol trend going with the P365. That means they were watching the marketplace closely around 2015-2016 to see what was driving civilian sales. Concealed carry. P365 was their response. And it took off kinda like lighter fluid on a charcoal grill.
And the only had to recall and redesign 4 times over two years Sig deserves no respect the way they always put out guns that dont run
@@edstringer1138 That's true, but sig does deserve credit for their magazine engineering. Cramming 17 rounds into the 365x Macro is impressive. Of course I'd still never buy a Sig for the reasons you mentioned lol
@@edstringer1138 The p365 was never actually recalled. They offered warranty repair for the guns that had striker, trigger return spring or dead night sight issues. Upgraded the siglit ns to X-Ray sights then made those std. Yes there were rolling changes to correct the issues with several runs early on. The guns were released Dec 2017 and all problems resolved by late May/early June 2018.
That's not an uncommon thing in the gun world. Remember early Gen 4 Glocks with dual spring issues for 6 months? It's happened to most every manufacturer. Sig got slammed over it and some folks never give credit for the resolution and innovation that made the micro market a thing, and changing the jndustry for the better by creating such game changing innovations.
While I still shoot and feel more confident with a (typical 4", 15 round) compact like my CZ P10C, I understand why a slimmer larger micro nine (like my Hellcat Pro) are so popular. Not a large difference in performance while being more comfortable/concealable with similar capacity. In my case it becomes a winter vs. summer carry proposition. Of course I also carry a S&W 442 .38 as my pocket BUG.
I have lots of pistols, but my EDC is a CZ 75 Compact PCR. It can do just about any task and goes bang every time. It is a tack driver and after 3000 plus rounds it is going strong. CZs FTW!
I have a slender build (6 ft. - 150 lbs.) I bought my first handgun last May (SAR9 Compact) partly based on GB Guns review and was expecting to be able to use it for both home defense and concealed carry. However, when I went to have an IWB holster made for it, I was told that with my body size, I would hate carrying this gun because of its weight and bulk. Having never carried before, I had no frame of reference to compare against but appreciated his input. I ultimately purchased a micro compact (Taurus GX4) which fits my body perfectly at about the 3 o'clock position with no printing, even when only covered by a tee shirt. For me the decision came down to one of comfort and concealability when carrying. I reasoned that if it wasn't comfortable to carry and easily concealable, I likely wouldn't carry it as often. The SAR9C is now my nightstand gun so no regrets.
In training members of a church security team, I found a number of them chose the micros (most often a Sig P365 or Kimber variant) principally because here in North Central Texas, they’re easier to conceal, especially in summer attire which we don 4-5 months out of the year (mid-May to mid-Sept 10:46 ).
What I also found was most could not shoot them accurately at all on untimed, 1-shot, standard drills at 5 yards. And none of them were accurate in multiple shot drills at the same distance. They’re simply too small to gain and maintain a good purchase on and control during strings of fire.
I agree totally with your observations, compacts & mid-sized pistols are the most practical and effective tools. Me, I carry & train with a full sized PX4 9mm Beretta 9/10ths of the time, and couldn’t be happier. Keep it coming!!
Well said! These days I personally prefer the "Mullet Guns" (19X, G45, etc.). You get the full size frame/firing grip w/a capable/competent barrel/slide configuration. When I handle one of these side by side w/a compact, the mullet typically wins.
I’m double nuts. I love my CZP07 and it’s a DA/SA 😊
I love my fn 509m. I like how you kept it in the background til the end.
I adore my FN 509 Midsize. I agree, it's a do it all type of gun that can serve multiple roles. I do however also own a micro 9 for summer clothes and I completely understand why some might choose to only have a micro 9 now given that the mag capacities of them have gotten so much better. Sadly, many new shooters fail to recognize that larger guns are so much easier to shoot however.
Sub and micro compact polymer (for the most part) pistols are in vogue now, as you are well aware. There has been a pretty substantial amount of innovation in the micros, especially in capacity with the P365 leading everyone else.
I go to my local gun store/ range often. I'm a big guy, and a senior. Like you, Graham, I have large hands. The micros are, generally, uncomfortable to hold. To me, it's like a car- If I can get in and out of it without causing pain, or not being able to even get in it- yes, that's happened... I immediately reject it. I bought and sometimes carry a Canik TP9SF Elite SC. I do not like the pinky extension mag- I use a 15 round one, and even though it feels odd, it is o.k. I do have a couple of mags that have sleeves to make the grip feel like a standard compact. For us bigger guys, compacts can be fairly well concealed. To me, my PDP compact, is just right. I shoot it well, and its accurate. I just bought a METE SF. I had to order it, only the SFT and SFX were in stock.
I watched your review of the new Canik Micro, and I am going to look carefully at that gun when one is in stock.
I don't think we've forgotten about our well loved compacts, they have just been upstaged by the micros.
Because Sig has such overwhelming marketing, it's easy to dismiss how innovative they actually are. The 365 series has proven you can fit 15 or more rounds in a gun much smaller than a compact. Now with the 365x Macro, they've done that AND made the gun as easy to shoot as any compact with the inclusion of the built-in compensator. Why use a compact if you can buy a pistol that's smaller, lighter, and handles just as well?
Me personally I'll stick to compact and full-size because Sig's innovation does not translate to good quality firearms. People are already complaining that their Macros are showing signs of wear normally associated with 5+ year old pistols.
Compact is my favorite size. I have so many in all the different sizes but always seem to grab one of my compacts for concealed carry. If I'm carrying a smaller size it's mostly my IWI Masada Slim or CZ P10S
I currently carry a PX4 storm compact, my opinion is the compact is perfect for me…. You can conceal it, the 3.5 to 4.0ish barrel length in a typical compact is easier to shoot and stay on target with less recoil than the smaller barrel lengths, sub compacts and micro’s. I couldn’t agree more that the media broadcasts the latest and greatest trends/fads which is ok. The micro’s are in the lime light so to speak right now. There are a lot of companies making really good soft shooting micros. I’m old school and grew up shooting larger pistols so for me the 4” compact was my “WOW” pistol. Thank you for all the great content, your time and channel are greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
For all the reasons you mentioned, I have no use for any of the true micro's. The market is adjusting by increasing their sizes with X, XL, and + models as people realize tiny guns are not the holy grail for most shooters. A full 3 finger grip (even if that is accomplished with pinky/mag extension) greatly enhances the shootability of almost all pistols. A barrel length of 3.2" can be adequate, but, 3.5"+ adds ballance and aides in recoil control. At 6' and 200 lb.s, commander size 1911s and 4" handguns, like the Beretta PX4 full size, are perfect options for me and many others.
Manly. I agree with you 😎
I love my old 229, if guns get any smaller you're gonna shoot off fingers trying to use them. I like the Shield for easy cary but nowhere near as comfortable to shoot as my 229, 92, and M&P. Great video👍
It's hard to beat a good DA/SA. Folks who've never used a clutch may never understand.
@@JD-tn5lz I love a cluth too😄
It would nice if you could further dive into whatever happened to DA/SA compacts…
People think strikers are easier to shoot, and they are cheaper for companies to make. And people have gotten completely comfortable carry a single action striker gun safety wise
You beat me to it, but that pretty much sums up what I was going to say. It's cheaper to make strikers (more profit for the company when sold at the same price), people are intimidated by DA/SA, second-strike is not as necessary with modern ammo, etc etc. I think a part of it to is the RUclips age. It's easier to look cool or fake that you know what you're doing with a striker. With the rise of GunTubers strikers were shown more.
Just bought a CZ-P10C to fill the compact role. Just an all around gun to have. Can fill multiple roles.
I have that gun but wish it was smaller like the 19 size.
With the introduction of micro's it changed the game. Compacts or full width handguns are now considered fullsize / duty firearms, and the old fullsize such as G17/G34 are now rarely used because the introduction of the X hybrid line of 4" slide with less reciprocating mass and fullsize frames. With most people running optics now a days sight radius is not much of a concern anymore. Most will never admit it but the Taurus G3C is the perfect goldilocks zone for shootability, ergonomics, reliability, weight and concealment. It falls between subcompact and micro which not many have attempted yet other then maybe the MC9, which is a new release. Looking forward to getting my hands on one of those MC2SC & MC2C's.
As a person who has been an armed professional for a good portion of my life as well as a gun enthusiast and collector I have my own classification for handguns. I consider Glock 17 and larger guns to be Service sidearms, mostly if carried on body to be carried in a holster on a duty type belt. Midsize or Glock 19 sized guns I see as Agent or investigator type weapons when if carried on body are holstered and concealed with a jacket or openly carried with a badge close by. Subcompact guns like a Glock 26?27 size or a frame revolver size are Undercover type guns carried concealed to keep from their presence ever being known. The new Micro compacts like the Shield, Shiel plus, 365, Hellcat, MC9 etc. are a great addition to the undercover class of guns. Now with off-body carry such as with a sling bag or briefcase you can carry any of the size guns but as a civilian or undercover operative with on-body carry the micros are the way to go. It is just too difficult especially in a warm climate to conceal the compacts and up.
I've always wondered this, too. Compact pistols are the best do it all pistol size for most people. I think its because people are on the micro 9s micro compact kick for some reason.
for da/sa i absolutely love my Beretta px4 storm compact langdon tactical edition or the bersa tpr9c.
Personally, I find the compact 4" barrel to the 4.5" mid-size as the ideal barrel length to deliver optimal performance.
When possible, I prefer to carry a full-size 5" long barrel.
I only own *one* subcompact with a 3.6 barrel length, which I carry in rare occasions.
I am not into micro guns. I don't like them. The only micro that has gotten my attention is the Canik METE MC9 and the Sig Sauer P365 TACOPS.
Unfortunately, nowadays, men are into seeking "maximum comfort" by carrying the smallest, cutest 3" barrel micro gun. But not me; like I said, I am into *maximizing performance and effectiveness.*
Thank you, GB! 😎
Let's be honest...a lot of it is sales and marketing. The dimensional differences between micro, sub, and compact are not really that significant...aside from barrel length and capacity. I'd rather carry a slightly larger pistol, but that may not be the best option for others.
Great vid.. My Wife likes the compacts , I tend to like the weight in a gun and the grips are everything for me .. Enjoyed ! 👍👍
I have a Beretta PX4 Storm Compact Carry LTT. I no longer daily carry it except during cold months in my Rothco winter jacket. SIzewise, it's compact but the barrel is only 3 1/4". I usually have it as my office gun. It's been replaced for EDC by my Mossberg MC2SC, which is smaller, has a slightly longer barrel and almost identical sight radius.
Love the 4" bbl sized pistols ... SD9VE, G23 Gen4, Canik TP9SF-Elite,Creed,FNS-40, they feel great in the hand and easy to handle ...
Love the insight and videos Graham. I like mid-size pistols and have a couple but for those of us who live in southern climates, they really don’t work well for CC, yes it can be done and compromise is key, but for real life it’s rather difficult. Micros are definitely where it’s at majority of the time for cc.
I still have a G19 but I rarely carry it anymore. I carry my G26 the vast majority of the time. I have the factory 12 round extended mag and appendix carry that or flush mag for pocket carry. I just find it more comfortable to carry and for some reason I have always shot it better than my G19.
I still love my G19 at the range though. Not because I shoot it great but at the range it’s fun to shoot a bigger gun.
Anyway, that’s my reasoning but I agree that it’s a good size for carry, and it’s certainly better for a nightstand gun because of the rail that the G26 doesn’t have. I know you can get a light for it but you can’t put any light on it like the G19.
G26 is the sweeeeeet spot.
Honestly while most of the people who are big I to training find no issues carrying a compact gun, many of the people buying the micro compacts do so because they do not have to change their life and wardrobe around carrying thr gun. Compacts were primarily designed for police and military officer who would wear it on a belt outside their clothing. In the US where most people are only able or only willing to conceal carry, the gun must be even smaller to be comfortable a d hidden. Most other normal folks who don't want to shoot often but want to defend themselves now are asking me about micro compacts. Almost everyone one of them have complained that the compacts suggested by the gun store employees are too big for them to carry.
👍👍 Thanks for sharing, something to think about for sure.
I still carry a compact sized pistol (M&P m2.0 compact) because I want the grip that I can get all my fingers on. What I would like is less width. That's what concerns me the most with printing through clothing. I carry at 3 o'clock and with a slight forward cant on my holster I do not have trouble with the butt of the grip printing.
The compact 9 will always be my ideal carry piece, I think the advantages will always outweigh the downsides. If I have to defend myself or my family I want my P-10c
Funny you mention the Arex; It's almost identical in every dimension to the Glock 48.
The biggest reason you don't hear about them is the recent "Gun Fad" of micro and subcompact guns that are flooding the market. Kind of like how 40 S&W fell out of favor.
Just like the 40, the compact size is probably more ideal than the latest "Fad" but things just have to come back full circle.
Thanks for the video...
Good point!
For a first handgun, you need to spend lots of time on a shooting range. Both with a good Instructor showing everything you need to know. Then under supervised practice. And then, finally SOLO, improving your level of competence and comfort with your chosen piece of hardware.
A "too tiny to shoot comfortably" gun is just going to defeat that purpose before you can even get started!
I NEVER recommended the tiny pocket "Wonders" for a first time user! NEVER!
And it seems to take, even a well trained and very experienced shooter 300 to 500 rounds (say three to five range secessions!) just to get used to and feel comfortable with, any new gun. Especially one that's going to be a "daily carry tool" for the defense of your very life.
As an employee for years of a store that sold all kinds of weapons, it grieved me to no end, when a potential customer starts asking me; "What kind of gun should I buy?"
This is an immediate red flag. Because my first question is always: "Well what kind of guns do you have experience with?'
When they tell me "None", I always advised them to first get some training and experience! With either a Professional firearms Instructor or, perhaps a friend or relative with enough experience to be a a safe and competent teacher.
Have been carrying a pdp and a cr920 depending on how cold it is, even though I love the pdp I do wish they would come out with slimmer versions.
I plan on carrying my 92x RDO Compact starting this spring, 4.25" barrel. Anything else I get that is smaller would be 3" and in pocket or ankle.
I have a Beretta APX Carry 9mm that I consider a sub-compact that I used to carry, and after a few mags it was certainly NOT a fun shooter at the range. I ended up getting an HK VP9SK (I consider a compact size) that was definitely bigger to carry but I felt much more confident and accurate shooting than I did the APX Carry. But come warmer weather I did not want to carry a heavy-ish pistol so when Sig came out with the P365-380 I jumped on it. Now my warm weather carry is the P365-380 with Underwood Xtreme Defender fluted ammo (and the HK during colder weather). So for "me" the 380 ammo is much easier to control with a sub-compact gun and I personally have no worries about penetration or wound cavity with the monolithic solid ammo. All that said, I think the "compact" size is still the Godilocks of pistol size for 9mm ammo. Great info and sight as always GBGuns!! Love your channel :)
I own several compacts. They are my favorite size. My usual EDC is the Beretta PX4 Storm compact from LTT. When I'm not carrying that, it's my Sig P239. I do own and like the compact PDP and P320 but I prefer to carry DA//SA hammer fire. I largely ignore micros. I'm more interested in the new compact hammer fire from Lionheart or Grand Power for example
Commander size for the win. Glock 45, SIG P320 Carry, Beretta Centurion... to name a few.
I have the mete sft and sf. The sf is my fav handgun I own. I have the pdp arex m p10c just to name a few. Caniks are great. Hands down my fav handgun brand
I've had my Keltec P11 for 22 years, I finally bought a Glock 19 MOS Gen 5, and I will say, it's actually easier not to print. The longer barrel tucks it in better than the shorter Keltec. The handle always stuck out so much making it easy to print, even tho it is a small gun.
I went from my Ruger Security 9 4" to my Shield Plus. Here's the experience.... While I lost the ability to use my thumb on the grip with the 10 round mag, I found there wasn't a single new outfit I could conceal in where I couldn't with the Ruger. One exception being I can pocket carry the Shield sometimes. However, I will say at first I actually shot the Shield BETTER than my Ruger...but I has also learned new techniques. Now they should about the same.
I went back to the Ruger as my primary carry gun for a while because it's shape made it much more comfortable to carry. I will say currently, I find the optimal carry to be the Shield with the 13 round mag, which gives it the same-ish grip length as the Ruger.
But I choose the shield as my primary for a few reasons. If I'm going to be gone all day, I'll take both mags and a holster or two and that way I have several ways I can carry it (pocket, iwb, off-body) and if the day starts cold and then warms up as the sun is out, I can change how I am carrying on the fly. There's a little less I can do with the compact, though it's not super far off. My Shield has also been 100% malfunction-free since I got it, but my Ruger has had lots of hiccups, so that really sealed the deal. Plus with the Shield being thinner and lighter, well my pants don't sag as much at least.
I cardy a full/duty sized pistol if it's winter conditions outside all day. Much easier to grab from under layers and operate with gloves.
I’m fortunate enough to have several concealed carry firearms at my disposal. With that said, I’m gravitating towards my Glock 19 or Glock 48 as of late. I like the full firing grip and capacity. And let’s face it…the world is getting worse so more ammo capacity the better.
I had Sig P250 with both compact and sub compact modules. I only ever carried it with the compact module because of the fear of velocity loss. I gave it to my son in law. I have often regretted letting it go, but knowing it is protecting my granddaughters erases that regret. I still have a Colt Officers ACP and I don't carry it for the same reason. When I carry a semiautomatic pistol it is usually my Canik TP9DA or S&W SW9VE (a second gen Sigma). I did recently purchase a Tisas Stingray but I haven't had the opportunity to put enough rounds through it to add it to my EDC rotation. All that being said you will most often find me with a S&W 442 in my pocket. The plan being stay out of situations where I might need to shoot someone. That has been my plan for over 70 years and so far it is working. Hopefully the goblins will cooperate and leave me and mine alone. As always I enjoy your videos and your insights. Keep up the good work.
Pretty much all I carry, all my pistols are FS and Compact, the length bore sight is very important for myself, as an old fart, the mirco are a no go, and I do not use optics on any of my pistols . Mentally, which also plays an important part, I feel more comfort with Compact, I had a micro as a carry gun for 6 months, and sold it, just not my thing, after all, being comfort both mentally and physically with your firearm, is more important than anything.
I own; Ruger SR9C, CZ75 compact decocker, wife has Sig P320
I've been carrying daily since 1988. I've bought nearly every Glock that has been sold on the US market. I've bought lots of others brands too and I enjoy shooting them all. That said, I bought my first Glock 19 in 1996 and have carried it nearly everyday since. Occasionally I'll carry my 26, or the 43, or the 43X, but I always go back to one I shoot the absolute best and that's the 19. Sure it's not the easiest gun to conceal, but I'm. 6'5" 380lbs so I can hide it well. I also spent a couple years on and off carrying my 21, but that was just because at that time I shot it as well if not better than my 19.
Still sticking with my Compact. Still easy enough to conceal and shoot.
Hmm... So if your typical 9mm loads are meant for 4 inch barrels then what's a good load for sub 4 inch barrels?
There are some loads specifically made for shorter barrels, and some modern loads can still do fine from a sub 4", the only way to k ow for sure would be to test them all and that takes more time and money than I've got.
@@GBGuns thanks for the info, time to research.
All dot but barrel length for ballistics I guess but not a primary consideration. I'm buying a pdp soon, I seen your post about the free ameriglo red dot and it tipped the scale for my decision. Thanks
I currently carry a Ruger Security 9. I would really like to upgrade to a walther pdp compact sometime.
Did you see the offer Walther has? We posted it yesterday on GBGunsDepot.com
@@GBGuns I did and it is very tempting. I don’t know if those dots are any good or not but it’s a hell of a deal.
June of last year I went back to the 4 inch barrel, got tired of the uncomfortable short barrel recoil!
I still carry a CZ 75 Compact PCR. There are very few micro 9's that have a shorter handle so changing to a micro is a non-factor.
I carry a CZ P10S as my EDC. Some would say the P10S is a Sub Compact, but IMO with a Plus 2 base plate you start venturing into a hybrid between Sub compact and Compact. Just in my personal experience, weight and width is a drawback to the sub compact and compact pistols (weight being the biggest drawback for me). As a hiker in my spare time, I find any pistol that starts to exceed 24 ounces with an unloaded mag, starts to get a bit on the heavier side when hiking or walking long distances. I'm starting to see a bigger trend moving towards the Micro 9 series of pistols that has a full grip like the Springfield Hellcat Pro and seeing more women starting to opt for Glock 43X and 48 type designs, due to being thinner than a compact, much lighter and most of all a bit easier to shoot due to getting a full grip on the pistol. Compacts and Sub compacts are here to stay for a long time especially considering how flexible they are for SD and Range use, not everyone owns multiple pistols and for those like me who owns 1 pistol (allowed to have 2 pistols max on occasional and SD status) due to how gun laws work in the country I live in, compacts and Sub Compacts will majority be the primary choice.
compact pistol with a threaded barrel around 4.5 inch and compensator is my ideal gun . Easy to conceal, good velocity ,and shoots softer than a full size without a comp. Also something about a compact grip with a magwell just locks my hand into the gun and helps keep it flat af
I first noted a similar hand experience with the PDP line of pistols. Even though I have XXL-glove hands, the compact locks me in while the full-size PDP form just doesn't fit right. Maybe it's from years of shooting smaller guns, something about the full-size grip feels off.
The micro compact with capacity that is within 2-5 rounds just makes more sense for concealed carry. That is what happened to the compact market.
Well, down south in states open carry isn’t legal, summers are blisteringly hot or summer is the only time of year (20 years in south Florida) carrying a subcompact makes sense. Carry concealed only in Florida. Hotter than hell, subcompacts make total sense.
Go a little more north in the south to the promised land, subcompact in the late spring, 100 degree humid summers and a compact in early spring, fall and winter is what makes sense. It’s the balance. The subcompacts are the newer design and get the press releases more often, but as we see, new compacts keep coming out. It seems like especially new owners look at compacts as antiquated designs and the 10-12rd capacity on 3-3.4” barrels is the new tech.
Then again what do I know, I only do written reviews and write ups for a living. In a different industry albeit.
I don’t have any use for compact because I never holster carry. Either Pocket or range full size.
I got 8 +1 and sometime a extra mag in my XdS mod 2 for concealed Plus I modded the trigger. not to snappy and just feels good with a full grip Bediside is a PPQ 17 round , Den P30sk Im good for 9s Im sort of curious on the micro 9s with red dots but it wouldnt be really replacing any of those three Id be more likely to buy a 30 super if ammo prices dropped
The majority of my pistols are compact, despite my P365, Hellcat, and S&W Shield Plus, so they'll never be "outdated" or outright replaced by micro 9's in my collection!
Not long ago single stack 9mm were the hot thing. Then the micro 9 with more capacity with simular size came up. I have seen videos and comments where people wrote that they went back to sub compacts like the G26 because they are better to control. Also the Sig 365 macro is an answer to it that the micros are not comfortable to shoot. So we end up again with almost compact size pistols. And from videos who compared the G19 vs G48 side by side its looks like the regular compact size is still nicer to shoot and better to control.
I don’t like to carry anything with less than a 4” barrel.
Great video! Love my compacts, what happened to DA/SA?
I have some theories on that, might make for another video and article.
@@GBGuns I’ll be waiting
I love DA/SA guns, have since the 80s when I started carrying P220 then P229 and 3rd Gen S&Ws, later P07. Back to P229 and P07 as all time favs. I even occasionally step up to the P226 and Beretta 92X. With the right holster/belt combo it's not a problem even with a polo or untucked Hawaiian type button up shirt.
Da/sa for me too. P229, 92fs, S&W 457, and 908, Taurus TH9C, and if I eat my wheaties, my S&W 4566.
I still haven’t given up my PPSM2 for the newer micro pistols. I’ve even gone to carrying my Dagger or P10-c lately as I don’t care about printing here in Portland. Don’t get me wrong, I’d like to try ‘em but they were coming out so quickly, I had to step back. As to why we don’t see more compacts? I think it’s the size and concealment factors, followed very closely by the trending of the 365. I’m really looking forward to more manufacturers releasing FCU’s, too.
I love my ppsm2. My wife has one too and carries hers daily. I never got into micros either since I had the pps. Carry a p10c too myself
It's the most common practice in firearms history that people buy significantly more small guns compared to bug guns. Your common man would prefer to have something convenient to carry and relatively cheap.
I have been carrying HK P30..v3 17 rounds For many moons now..... Never had an issue with the size
Although micro and sub-compacts have made a huge wave through the market recently I still prefer compact sized pistols. They’re in between the conceal carry and duty category.
I stopped carrying Glock 19 size compacts 2 years ago after I bought the P365XL which is similar in size and capacity to compacts but slimmer and easier to carry.
I enjoy the compacts I own and will continue to buy them. I prefer the 3.5”+ inch barrels (that’s what she said 🤣) with the larger grips that accommodate them. I don’t want the latest and greatest until they have been proven reliable. Manufacturers tend to rush their products out before all the testing is complete.
I might be the opposite. I’m in love with the compact size. Maybe it’s because a Glock 19 was one of the first pistols I ever shot. But I love guns like the Canik Mete SF, PSA Dagger compact, MR920 etc.
Think were seeing ppl go back to the g26 also ..see the driver sub compact or cz p10s exp an m single stack
Thin compacts with full size capacity is the future for carry guns. Think the sig p365 XMacro tacops
I never seen that axectomohawk it's pretty nice. I was hoping it was around the $550 price not $850 lol
You can't build a gun like that for that little money.
I'm seeing a lot of new 10mm 4" compact guns hitting the market, which is cool. ...You'd think 10mm prefers a 5" or 6" long barrel, but nope, it's perfectly happy with 4" for some reason.
Never left compacts still rock a g19 and also a walther pdp conpact 5 inch
A lot of it has to do with people not realizing that they can conceal a larger gun than they think.
As a preface to my thoughts. Concealed carry Is a new adventure for us in places like New Jersey and New York in the post Bruen decision world. Prior it was full size 4.5" barreled bedside guns for HD and range trips - mostly. I mean. Why not? Big frames are easy shooters. Now that hell hath froze my choices are broader. First purchase was a Shadow system CR 920 fantastic pistol but difficult to shoot comfortably and well for extended periods of time. Was as big a change from an FN 509t as you can get. I have settled in on a Beretta APX Centurion/Compact (modularity at its best!) and a M&P 2.0 compact. 3.6" barrel is the sweet spot for me. These "forgotten" compacts are all new to me and every size and type is in consideration. 10 round mags also alter the calculus. Capacity is not so much a consideration (tho that may change soon too).
I'm very convinced these "10 round magazine" Laws will eventually be ruled "Unconstitutional"!
It is pure lunacy to imagine limiting "Law Abiding Citizens" to only 10 rounds will make any sort of dent in CRIME!
Our "Leaders" seem to all be FOOLS. Or Communist? Guess you can take your pick.
@@robinj.9329 would say that those choices are not mutually exclusive. Lol. They are Commie fools !
If it were a matter of enforcement- the mag limit should be an add on charge. “.. in the commission of a felony with a 11+ round magazine…” it would be directed at the criminal. In NJ it’s a possession crime. You don’t even have to possess the firearm the magazine goes in nor the ammo it uses to be charged! Its a law designed to make felons and ruin lives. It not even a secret. They admit the laws are written to make you hesitant to own a firearm and if you loose your rights as a felon- oh well. That to them is a win.
But I agree. These laws will eventually go away - it will be dragged out for as long as possible in hopes of changing the court - so we here are forced to play the long game.
Most of my guns are compacts. Though I do have a few 1911s and a 92fs. But there’s a noticeable difference between carrying a 5” gun and a 4” gun. I prefer my single stack S&W 457 the most in 45acp, even though it has smaller capacity than my double stack 9mms.
I will stick with my P320 carry, PDP 4" full size and Glock 19x/45. I prefer the 4 inch barrel with a full size grip more since they are a compact and full size handguns. I was never sold on the micro compact.
I would consider my hellcat pro a compact for sure. My shield 45 feels like a subcompact. My 5" pdp compact always makes me laugh.
Trends in this video's comments seem to be that people are getting a micro compact as their secondary. And that they already have a reliable compact they are content with.
My guess would be that as folks find their sub/micro of choice, the sales will shrink. Is there anyone else who has a different idea?
Compacts are not going anywhere! They are still king however, the "micro compacts" are more concealable and the craze right now because they are thin, light, and can carry a decent round capacity of at least 10-13+. Not bad for a smaller piece for CC. I'm still rocking my compacts and sub-compacts (i.e., HK VP9sk/P30sk and G26).
Almost all of my many pistols are compacts. My only subcompact is a Glock 26 (and Glock 29 if that even counts as a sub). I can count on one hand my full size handguns, not counting revolvers. I do love my MK 12 K100, recommended by GB years ago. Amazing design, although the finish tends get very light surface rust and it likes to be rubbed down with an oil cloth. It does not damage the finish and it is stored in a safe with a golden rod dehumidifier.
I am 5' 8", 170 lbs and I think compacts are the perfect size, weight, sight radius, barrel length for the 9mm cartridge, and a comfortable grip. They hold the right amount of rounds in the magazines and can double capacity with a spare. Could they be smaller and lighter? Sure, they could. Are they comfortable enough for daily carry with a proper belt and holster? For me, yes.
In most situations the compact is the largest and the smallest handgun I would want to carry. Great topic, GB.
I'm there with ya, the majority of my pistols are compacts as it's such a versatile size: small enough for carry, big enough to be enjoyable on the range.
You don’t hear about compact pistol size any longer simply because why would a civilian concealed carry a larger pistol with the same rounds as a larger pistol? Civilian concealed carrying must be conviennent to actual daily carry. Pistol size is the number one factor of convenience. Unless your carrying on duty as LE or security a duty sized frame is no longer needed to have 12-15 plus rounds in a very small pistol now.
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